(doing business asMMA Research Fund) is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to supporting medical research efforts to find a cure for methylmalonic acidemia. Staffed entirely by volunteers, this organization seeks to apply every dollar available towards these research efforts.

When the body cannot metabolize amino acids (protein) correctly, severe metabolic disturbances cause methylmalonic acid to build in the bloodstream at high levels. This toxic acid can lead to severe metabolic acidosis, which can be fatal.

MMA impairs not just the health of affected children, but also daily living.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may include:

decreased muscle tone

anorexia

delayed development

recurrent infections, and

failure to thrive.

Most MMA patients have little appetite and require gastrostomy feedings. Symptoms generally present at birth or early childhood.

What complications can arise from MMA?

As a result of the body being exposed to extremely high levels of methylmalonic acid, complications in renal, neurological and gastrointestinal functions can ultimately develop. During periods of illness or stress, the body naturally speeds up its metabolism and can cause acute complications such as dehydration, acidosis, hypoglycemia, seizures, encephalopathy, bone marrow suppression, pancreatitis and hepatitis.